What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen anytime and can be a frequent household problem. They can be unpleasant and messy and requires immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact an emergency plumber right away. In this blog we’ll walk you through some simple steps to get your toilet unclogged in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with the use of simple tools such as a plunger, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start it is essential to have these tools handy:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off your water source valve.
The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to shut off the supply of water that is behind the toilet. This is to ensure that no water can enter the tank while you try to get it unclogged. The valve usually is found near to the base of tank on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most efficient method for getting rid of blocked toilets. Start by pushing down upon the plunger until air is removed from it, then press it hard over the toilet and begin to plunge quickly up and down for approximately 20 seconds. The suction generated when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled motion.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close by to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If the plunge doesn’t work Try this method add half a cup of baking soda as well as one cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz it will be poured down with hot water (not overly hot) to remove the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed and you are in need of a solution, it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s cable until you have a long thin wire with hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use to use the plumbing snake. It is made specifically to clear drain clogs. Insert the tool into the drain hole in your toilet and then twist, turn, push and pull till you experience a resistance. that’s where the blockage usually is. Be gentle and try to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement but without causing any damage to your drainpipe.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Restart the water supply and verify the result
Once you’ve cleared up any blockages, it is important to switch on the water supply valve behind your toilet. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure that everything flows freely now!
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Rubber Gloves | Hand protection from potential bacteria or germs present in the toilet bowl. |
| Plunger | Most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl and plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. |
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Mixture to use if plunging doesn’t work. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes, then pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the blockage. |
| Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake | Tools to use if both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed. Straighten the wire coat hanger until you have a long thin wire with a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know whether my toilet is clogged?
One of the most obvious indicators of a clogged toilet is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear gurgling sounds coming out of the bathroom.
What can I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it in the future as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off your water source to the valve on the side of the toilet. Then make use of a plunger and remove any blockages. If this fails, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are several things you can do to keep your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool in the toilet. It is also important to avoid using oil or grease in the sink, as it can cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber for the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried flushing into your toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect there’s a larger issue with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to get in touch with an experienced professional plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience tackling every kind of plumbing issue and can quickly diagnose and address any issues without causing any disturbance to the home.
When should I schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get your drains cleaned by professionals like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system functioning smoothly. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow drainage of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then yearly cleaning is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to implement, and most of these items are readily available to homes. When facing blocked toilets before worrying after trying the methods, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re seeking professional help with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- CCTV Drain Inspection: An Effective Way to Prevent Future Plumbing Issues
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Say Goodbye to Messy Plumbing Repairs with Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
